Vivianne Miedema is beaming again: 'Everything is a bonus now' at Manchester City
If you haven't watched any women's football in the past few months, you've missed something special. Not just any goals or assists, but the resurgence of one of the greatest talents the Netherlands has ever produced. Vivianne Miedema is back. And not just a little bit. The Manchester City striker and all-time top scorer for the Dutch national team is playing again with the freedom and joy that once made her so irresistible. It's as if a weight has been lifted off her shoulders.
Finally free in the head again
Anyone who has followed her in recent years saw a player who was struggling. With injuries, with expectations, with her own mind. But the Vivianne we see now is one who smiles, who directs play on the field, and above all, who is enjoying herself again. In conversations with those around her, the same message keeps coming through: everything feels like a bonus now. She looks forward to celebrating, to cheering with teammates, and to giving the supporters something to come for. That joy radiates from her, and it translates directly into her game.
Staying longer in Manchester: 'This is where I want to be'
It was no surprise, then, that she extended her contract with Manchester City. In a football world where players often chase the next move, Miedema consciously chose stability and trust. 'There's no place I'd rather be right now than at City,' she stated. It's a statement that speaks volumes. At The Citizens, she has found an environment where she feels valued, not just as a goalscorer, but as a person. That connection has been essential to her return to top form.
More than just a football name
Funnily enough, the surname Miedema is everywhere in the Netherlands, but in the most diverse ways. On the pitch, of course, it's Vivianne who's in charge. But outside of it, you come across the name everywhere. Need to move house? You call Miedema Removals. Need new glasses? You pop into Miedema Optometry. And who knows, a younger brother might soon emerge: whispers on the amateur fields suggest a certain Lars Miedema is making quite a name for himself in the youth ranks. The name lives on, but for now, Vivianne remains the standard-bearer on the biggest stage.
The numbers don't lie
What hasn't she achieved? For those needing a quick refresher:
- All-time top scorer for the Dutch national team – by far the most prolific goal-scorer ever, men or women.
- Record holder in the English league – in her best years, she scored for fun and set records that will stand for years to come.
- Two-time FA Cup winner and Women's Super League champion.
- In 2026, she's firmly back in the starting eleven at Manchester City, making the difference week in, week out.
Looking ahead: together with the national team
With her contract extension and rediscovered joy in playing, the path is clear for a bright future. National coach Andries Jonker will undoubtedly be grinning from ear to ear seeing her play like this. With upcoming tournaments on the horizon, the Dutch team can't do without a fit and happy Miedema. She's the anchor, the player who lifts younger talents and gives defenders nightmares. If she says she's looking forward to celebrating again, then we as fans also look forward to the moments she can do that with us. The real bonus is that we get to enjoy it for a long time to come.